The Indianapolis journal. [volume] (Indianapolis [Ind.]) 1867-1904, 1887-04-19
An Anecdote of MIR. Lincoln.

AN AnecuOL0 Oh NAr Lincoln.
To the Editor of the Indianapolis journal:
The circumstances under which Mr.. Lincoln
composed his great speech at Gettysburg, which
has elected from scholars and patriots alike.
such high commentator. are familiar to the
readers of the Journal 1t seems incredible that
such grand grafton could be composed by any
one while seated in a crowded car on the way to
the place of delivery, and yet no one doubts Mr..
McPherson's statement.
Knowing that people eagerly seek for any
thing Bearing on the character of this wonderful
man. and that future generations likely to
be more interested in such things than his con-
temporaries, have concluded to relate an Incl
dent which came under my own observation,
illustrative of the intensity of the mans friend
ship for those to whom he felt under obligations.
i was myself not intimate with Lincoln,
though made ,ozs his seauain tan as as
Republican national convention met in Philadel-
phia After his election to the presidency, in
1860 visited him at his home in Springfield. to
solicit his favorable consideration of Caleb B.
Smith for place in his Cabinet, and again in
February, 1861. on his way to Washington to
be inaugurated President, the Legislature of In
DIANA of which / was member gave him
reception at Indianapolis, and spoke to him
words of encouragement / next saw Lincoln
the first week in September, 1861. and this was
the last time / saw him alive He had appointed
q paymaster Of the army from his own State,
who, on presenting his bond to the Paymaster-
general, was informed that the securities not
having testified as to their property. the bond
could not be approved. The gentleman imme-
diately left for the executive man.
sion, mile distant and tine wealth
err very hot. Not more than half
an hour had elapsed until he and the President
entered the Office where still remained, and
having recognized and introduced his friend to
me. Lincoln made this speech, after the manner
of one addressing COURT Colonel Larned, /
and know them to be perfectly responsible and
while do not desire to interfere with the rules
of your Office, should be much gratifed il you
could approve this bond" 1t is needless to say
that after this speech the bond was approved,
and both left for the White House. Afterward.
becoming very we'll acquainted with the gentle
man. asked him the reason for going to the
President to vouch for him. His answer was:
Il did not know another person in Washington,
but Lincoln and l had served together in the
Black Hawk war and afterward as members of
the Illinois Legislature. and hence felt free to
call on him to certify to the responsibility of my
bond"
1t is certain that Lincoln recognized the obli-
cations of friendship. and was always ready to
reciprocate acts of kindness towards those who
had given aid to him. He was rot one of those
who when elevated to high position, think it un.
digniied to afterwards notice those who place
them in power. 1t is we'll known that as genial
companion and friend Lincoln had superior.
1t was a great condescension to leave the White
House during business hours and walk mile on
q not day to speak good word for friend
NEW CASTLE, April H. M. l.. BUNDY.